Or, here's an even better one: Is it better to seek your victory by submission or points?

Here's a quote from a recent interview with 2010 Pan No-Gi and No-Gi World Champion, Pablo Popovitch, (who is undefeated since 2007) that illuminates the issue:

Anyone can make a mistake and get caught. Some matches I think I could do more but I don’t because I want to keep the record going. It does take away from my Jiu-Jitsu in tournaments for sure. In some matches I could really let it go but I play it safe, so as not to fall into danger. Jiu-Jitsu is like a chess match. You make a mistake, you lose. I just try not to put that much pressure on myself. Deb Blyth, "Undefeated since 2007, Weapon X Wants Gi Win in 2011" Graciemag, November 10, 2010.

Popovitch is one of the best in the world for sure, especially after his dominance the last couple years. He's obviously very honest too. And, based on what we see in the major tournaments, he's not the only competitor with this mentality. Skill level and overall sophistication are at an all time high, and, it's understandable that many competitors will seek to win on points rather than attempting submissions at the risk of loss.

For me, personally, there is no question. Unless, you are incapable, you should always be seeking the submission, regardless of score. This doesn't mean being foolish and risking loss for no reason. But, seek out and work for the submission. Always.

WHAT DO YOU THINK, GRAPPLER?

Side note: Norris was mustachedly badass in "GGWB" (but, still no match for Rickson G.):

i certainly love the fun of rolling in the room without hunting for subs....especially when you have been rolling with the same guys for years...but in a tourney....the goal is to win. play it safe to a certain degree without blatantly stalling, or just hanging on. in wrestling stalling points are called sometimes when someone just walks in reverse. just keep working to improve the situation, more points, better control, and ultimately, a sub.p.s. nice logodr. c

Assuming we're talking about tournament matches: For me it depends on how good my opponent feels. If they are really aggressive, strong, technical, I will probably play a little more conservatively and be content with a points victory. If I get the feeling that I *can* smash them and submit them, then it's all out effort for the sub. But on the way I am always thinking about where the free points are (I might go side, knee on belly, mount instead of straight to the mount for example.)